Which of the following is a common sign of hypothermia in a rescued patient?

• A. High fever
• B. Shivering
• C. Rapid heartbeat
• D. Bright red skin

Answer: (B)

Shivering is the body's primary defense against cold and the most typical sign you’ll see in someone who is developing hypothermia. When core temperature starts to drop, the muscles contract rapidly to generate heat, which shows up as shivering. That reflexive heat production is what makes shivering a reliable clue that a rescued patient is experiencing cold-related hypothermia.

Fever wouldn’t fit hypothermia; it signals infection or heat-related illness, not cold exposure. A rapid heartbeat can occur from stress or early excitement, but as hypothermia deepens the heart rate often slows rather than stays fast. Bright red skin is more associated with heat exposure or inflammatory conditions, while hypothermia usually yields cool or pale skin due to reduced blood flow. So the presence of shivering directly reflects the body trying to warm up, making it the best indicator among the options.